Perspectives – The Flamehttps://abtheflame.net
Tue, 14 Aug 2018 15:39:02 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.9.8https://abtheflame.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/cropped-favicon-32x32.pngPerspectives – The Flamehttps://abtheflame.net
3232Reaching the endhttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/reaching-the-end/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/reaching-the-end/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 13:00:25 +0000https://abtheflame.net/?p=3502Before thesis defense, I attended a recollection in Cubao with Manila Archbishop Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle as the recollection master. There, he reminded us of many things but the two lessons I really remember are these: See the extraordinary in the ordinary and allow yourself to be surprised by God. Before, I was not that …]]>

Before thesis defense, I attended a recollection in Cubao with Manila Archbishop Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle as the recollection master. There, he reminded us of many things but the two lessons I really remember are these: See the extraordinary in the ordinary and allow yourself to be surprised by God. Before, I was not that person who shares this kind of thoughts to people. For me, it was too serious when you get into a conversation about these things. But maybe thesis and other major things—which would include stress from academic workload, editor duties, family matters, constant hunger (for literal food and food for the mind), and endless doubt on yourself and everything you do—change how one thinks and now, I appreciate and hold on to these wise words.

Some see the Flame as a small entity because “it’s just a college-based student publication.” Well, the Flame’s scope and audience are mainly, but not only, the Faculty of Arts and Letters and its community. Compared to other college-based publications, the Flame may have lesser resources and a…smaller office, but despite these, staffers always (or most of the time) manage to deliver. The Flame may not also be recognized by most people at first mention compared to other publications in the University, but ask those who have known the Flame about our
brand of journalism, then you’ll know that it is always fearless.

I guess this is the part where I could insert that first lesson I mentioned earlier. As I’ve shown, the Flame has many aspects that will make you think twice before joining, things that will make you compare it to other student publications (and eventually decide that you don’t like being part of the Flamily). But with all these, what I saw even before were beautiful things, among which are the kind and excellent staffers of the publication, good working environment, and everyone’s passion and dedication to do something that would guarantee little to no return, but more than a hundred percent stress.

Truly, there is no need for big or extravagant things for you to be amazed or be happy, or for you to see something as beautiful. Small things do us the same, do they not? We just don’t see them immediately because we’re focused on seeing something big. When we set an eye on a thing, we decide if it is ordinary or extraordinary, and the happiest people would often see the latter in everything, Tagle said. Perhaps, joining the Flame and becoming its editor in chief made me realize this even more. There may be more opportunities in other publications but I do not give much attention to that anymore since the Flame is already the best, the extraordinary, in my eyes.

The second lesson I shared—allow yourself to be surprised by God—would best fit in my college life. Having dentistry as my preferred program since I was in grade two until in third year high school, who would have thought that I would end up being a Journalism major? To be fair, I joined our student publication back then in high school, but I did not know and feel that I would pursue that path in college. Not to mention, when I was in fourth year high school, I even considered becoming a marine engineer because my dad is one. I thought I was motivated to enter marine school, but I guess I was just interested.

I filled out my college application form in UST with Journalism as my preferred yet not so sure of program. I did not know anything else I could possibly survive. With all the uncertainties in my life—to add, I only applied in one university because that’s how planned my life is—I managed to finish my studies, and I think being someone who goes on with the flow, being welcoming of all possibilities, contributed to this part of my life.
***
To Star, my sizzums and my other half in the Flame, I am proud of the both of us for surviving as heads of this publication year. There were a lot of bumps in our road, but we managed to reach our destination—with sanity.

To Adam and Minka, my ka-session every Thursday, I will forever be grateful that we became friends. Know that I am here for your stories, and I hope you do not get tired of guiding me in my scattered life decisions, in return.

To my Flamily, I lobe you. You will always be in my heart no matter what.

To my family, thank you for constantly supporting me in my journey. I am lucky to have you.

To my jogas, bezes, and friends, you are all blessings to me.

To God, my biggest gratitude will always be to You.

Leaving the Flame is hard; leaving something you love is hard. Artlets, I hope the Flame has truly ignited your intellectual senses. F

For feedback, email mikkahfactor.theflame@gmail.com.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/reaching-the-end/feed/0Panagyamanhttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/panagyaman/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/panagyaman/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 12:50:23 +0000https://abtheflame.net/?p=3500There are many things in life that are always left unnoticed. No matter how hard we try to look, we never see their value. As cliché as it already is, but we only realize the importance of something when it is no longer there. And sometimes, even in its absence, it stays the same—forgotten. People …]]>

There are many things in life that are always left unnoticed. No matter how hard we try to look, we never see their value. As cliché as it already is, but we only realize the importance of something when it is no longer there. And sometimes, even in its absence, it stays the same—forgotten.

People who never saw me growing up or who do not really know me, see me as a person who is so sure of herself and has her life all figured out. I may not be described as confident, but they would never call me timid and shy.

I, however, am.

Majority of my college years was geared towards finding my own version of self-love. Like anyone else, the journey was definitely not an easy one. There were moments where I spent most of my time pressuring and questioning myself. “Am I good enough?” “Why do I look like this and they don’t?” “Maybe I’m not enough.” The list of self doubt thoughts and questions would go on, and the road to self-love was even farther than what I anticipated.

It was always the little things that ticked me off. The small mark on my arm, the pimple (or pimples) on my face, the stretch marks on my thighs, and the scar on my leg. It was always the small things, the petty things. I would feel insecure, but because of my pride, I would try so hard not to show my vulnerable side. I would use my loud and sometimes easy-going attitude as my security blanket. I tried to fake it until I make it.

But I didn’t.

I always blamed society’s “accepted” beauty standards. I blamed social media for promoting unrealistic beauty. I blamed anything or anyone else. It was only during my last months in college that I realized that I often pass the blame on anything or anyone because I could not accept the fact that the blame should be pointed towards me.

In high school, I dreamt of becoming a courtside reporter. I promised myself that I would audition once I got into college, but I never did.

Frustrated, during my freshman year, I applied to be part of Tomasian Cable Television (TOMCAT) – UST’s Circle of Talents. However, during the day of my audition and interview, I chickened out. Before I entered the room, I changed the position I applied for, from Circle of Talents to writer/scriptwriter.

Don’t get me wrong. I would have loved to be part of the organization as a writer, but it just didn’t feel right.

When I let my courtside reporter dreams go, and it was then when I found my home in college, the Flame.

Entering college, I knew I wanted one thing, to become a journalist. The Flame veered me away from all my insecurities and pushed me towards my goals. Joining the publication gave me a different kind of confidence, familiar and empowering.

It was during my time in the publication that I learned to shatter my walls and slowly remove my armor. It was during my stay where I learned to appreciate all the small things. Being part of a publication urges you to pay attention and give importance to all the details. It was one of the most basic rules, and it was something I knew I had to apply in real life.

There are a lot of things that I always leave unnoticed, but it is because of the Flame that I learned to open my eyes a little wider. A good article is never complete without the facts and details that were built around and from it. And just like myself, I am not who I am without all the details, the imperfections.
***
To my Flamily, my time working for the publication was one of the best, but without you in it, it would surely be dull. It has been a pleasure working with you.

To Mikkah, my katuwang saFlame life, who would’ve thought we have made this far. I am beyond proud of the both of us. In the beginning, I always thought we always needed to prove ourselves, but it is only now that I realized, we didn’t have to. We had each other’s support (along with our Flamily, of course). We thrived and survived, and I thank you for sticking with me through everything.

To my mentors, you have always pushed me to my limits and allowed me commit my own mistakes. With that, I am grateful. I learned to be more persistent, careful, and wise.

To JG, no matter what we have been through and no matter which path we chose, I would forever be grateful I met such beautiful and empowered women.

To my high school friends, thank you for loving me for who I am. You have definitely shown me that I am more than my insecurities. Thank you for reminding me that whenever I miss home, I could always run to you, guys.

To my family, my real security blankets. You have loved and supported me more than any could and will. Thank you for always loving me especially during those times I couldn’t even love myself.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/panagyaman/feed/0Going beyondhttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/going-beyond/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/going-beyond/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 12:32:01 +0000https://abtheflame.net/?p=3497My parents told me that my grade school adviser said I am satisfied with my performance at school as long as I am passing. My adviser also told them that she believes that I can excel further, only if I wanted to push myself a little more. Basically, everything boils down to my actions and …]]>

My parents told me that my grade school adviser said I am satisfied with my performance at school as long as I am passing. My adviser also told them that she believes that I can excel further, only if I wanted to push myself a little more.

Basically, everything boils down to my actions and decisions.

I knew I should have learned from what my adviser said, but I did not listen. I maintained my habit until high schoo —exerting more effort on subjects I am interested in and doing average on the others.

Even in choosing the program I would take in college, I did not deliberate thoroughly on which field I might have an advantage on. I just chose the one which I thought would land me on an interesting job after college.

When I entered the Journalism program of the University of Santo Tomas (UST), I planned to fare just the same as I did back in high school. I just aimed to pass all the subjects so I will not be debarred.

While I was only holding on to my interest in the program, some of my classmates had already been practicing journalism through participating in different contests, seminars, and being part of their school publication.

I felt really small, knowing that I am completely lacking as a journalism student as I have only learned about the “angle” and the “inverted pyramid” from my classmate when I asked back in first year.

That sounds like something I can overcome easily in my next years in college. But believe me, it made me anxious about my future and my standing as a student.

Aside from the lessons in class, I know that I have to look for an avenue where I can hone my writing skills. Despite being hesitant of my capabilities, I applied for the news writer position for the Flame in my second year and fortunately, I got accepted.

In this publication, I found individuals who are more than willing to welcome a lot of people despite minimal space in the office, and who fervently loved what they are doing—writing and serving the Artlet community.

I would like to believe that in my every coverage and article commented on and returned by my editors, I gained new perspectives on how important journalism is and I have improved my writing skills.

Surprisingly, I can say that I did not only find a place where I can hone my crafts but I also found a home.

A year later, I was promoted as scenes editor, and as one of the seniors in the publication, I wanted to emulate the people who welcomed me. After my first few months as an editor, I tried to think that I have done my best but upon reflecting on my performance as one and as a student, I thought it was never enough and I had to push myself a little more in both aspects.

The Flame has played a crucial role in reporting issues and digging into controversies. I always kept in mind that I might be the cause of the failure not just of the Scenes section, but also of the entire publication.

But I am lucky to be surrounded with people who—despite the pressure of juggling academics and press work helped me exert more effort to deliver and continue contributing in igniting Artlets’ intellectual senses.

The University and the Faculty had their own controversies such as the missing P50,000 council fund, Type-B uniforms, tuition hike, and recently, the P1,200 “pilgrimage” fee.

My stay as a student and my short stint in the Flame made me realize not only the significance of journalism even in the micro setting and what I wanted to pursue as a profession, but also the importance of pushing my capabilities to some extent for myself and for others.
***
I know that I still have a lot to improve on when I get into the industry. But for my last article in the Flame, I would like to thank the people who were never subtle in showing their support—teaching me that it would never hurt to go beyond what I normally do.

To my family—Mama, Papa, Vanessa, and close relatives—you believed in me more than I did in myself. I never said this before but I would like you to know that I always felt safe and at peace when I am with you. This is all for you.

To Lola Ateng who did not make it hours before my graduation, I hope I still made you proud. Thank you for everything; you can rest now.

To my former editors who served as my mentors outside the classroom—Ate Gaea, Kuya Donn, and Mikkah—you have imparted a lot of lessons in me and I hope I did the same to the Scenes writers. Thank you for trusting me.

To Erma, Nam, Ivan, Mark, Jane and Alex, I am grateful to have met and stayed with you since first year. College life became bearable because of you.

To the Scenes section, I had my lapses and despite that, I am thankful that you gradually became committed to the Flame. Ian, Luis, and Eugene, please take care not only of the section but of the entire publication more than we did —do it for the Flame and the Artlet community.

To the Lord, for being the source of my strength.

Lastly, I am grateful for the Flame not only for being an avenue where I practiced journalism but also for being a home to all of us—allowing us to grow and go beyond what we thought was our limit. F

For feedback, email vannvillegas.theflame@gmail.com.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/going-beyond/feed/0Rising above mediocrityhttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/rising-above-mediocrity/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/rising-above-mediocrity/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 12:20:08 +0000https://abtheflame.net/?p=3495I was an unremarkable high school student. I was introverted, insecure, and had nothing that made me stand out from other students in my alma mater. Terrified of shaking up my comfortable life, I delayed worrying about college until I had little time to worry about anything else. Fortunately, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) was …]]>

I was an unremarkable high school student. I was introverted, insecure, and had nothing that made me stand out from other students in my alma mater.

Terrified of shaking up my comfortable life, I delayed worrying about college until I had little time to worry about anything else. Fortunately, the University of Santo Tomas (UST) was still accepting applications by the time I thought of preparing for college. I decided to take up Journalism because I imagined I was good at writing and could not see myself doing anything else.

Stepping into UST felt like coming home, and I was thrilled when I found out that I passed the entrance examinations. But getting into my dream school came with a hell of a lot of challenges.

My block was composed of people who looked like they had their whole life together at the age of sixteen. They were passionate about journalism, and had the talent and experience to boot. Being around them made me feel small and stupid. I knew I had a lot of catching up to do.

But I was not able to adjust to the workload and stress during my freshman year. I realized that I was not as good as I thought I was, and I hoped that UST could give me the education I needed to be successful in the field. And while I did meet some great professors during my four-year stay, I also encountered professors whose performances were unsatisfactory, challenging me to figure things out on my own.

I was scared that I would revert to the average student I was in high school, but college presented many opportunities for me to improve myself.

I was first introduced to the Flame when staffers did room-to-room promotions during orientation week. It was love at first sight. I visited the office to ask for old copies of the newsletter and hungrily flipped through the pages. Every time a new issue was released, I would dutifully grab my copies from the news racks.

I mulled about taking the qualifying examination thrice, but whether by circumstance or due to my own self doubt, I would miss it. Finally, I passed the examination on my junior year and was promoted to Issues editor a year later.

The Flame made up for all the lessons and training that regular classes were not able to give me. Being part of the publication gave me an opportunity to be better at my craft and to regain my self-confidence. Our small office became a home to me, and the editors and staffers became my family.

Once my excitement at being an editor waded off, the stress and exhaustion settled in. I struggled with managing my time between my academic work and my responsibilities as an editor.

But among all these, the most difficult setback I experienced was when my father passed away a few months before my graduation. It was sudden, and for a while, everything felt off balance and muddled to me. Consumed with grief, I was not able to work despite how hard I pushed myself.

I kept thinking of all the worst-case scenarios. I imagined that I would not be able to catch up with my academic work and graduate on time. I let my anxiety eat me alive and convince me that I was not progressing despite how much work I did.

But now, I am leaving the University with a Journalism degree tucked under my arm.

What I have learned is this: no one starts as someone successful right away. Dear reader, if right now you think that you are mediocre, that just means you have lots of room to improve. Do not settle. Set goals, work hard, and face every challenge you encounter head-on. With enough grit and patience, you might just see yourself become something great.
***
To my #IssuesStrongest team, thank you for all your hard work. I am proud of every single one of you. Continue digging for stories to tell Artlets and be fearless in your pursuit of the truth.

To my co-editors, thank you for reminding me that journalism is a service that requires passion, patience, and sacrifice. Because of you, I gained a newfound respect and appreciation for my craft. To Mikkah and Adam, know that all my Thursdays are still reserved for you. To the entire Flamily, thank you for all the good memories.

To my mentors, especially my Issues mothers—Ate Marla, Ate Alex, Ate AJ, Ate Kat, and Ate Naomi—I am grateful and humbled to have received guidance and encouragement from you. I would not be where I am today without all your help.

To Lean, Jelly, Sunday, AJ, Mark, Sierra, Ria, and Consi, you made college life worthwhile. Thank you for all the inside jokes, the chikas, the comfort you offered in times of vulnerability, and everything in between.

To Corheinne, you have made me a very proud ate. As one of my former editors told me, love the Flame and it will love you back. I know you’ll go farther.

To Clint, you have been with me through the good and the bad times. You make me feel safe. You make me feel strong. Thank you for everything.

And to my family, thank you for your constant love and support. I hope I am making all of you proud. F

For feedback, email minkatiangco.theflame@gmail.com.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/rising-above-mediocrity/feed/0Detourhttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/detour/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/detour/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 12:02:30 +0000https://abtheflame.net/?p=3493What is at that end of the road? That is the question I started to ask myself as I reflect on my journey at the University of Santo Tomas (UST). It could be anything. In my case, it is something that comes unexpectedly, yet when you finally grasp it in your hands, it is something …]]>

What is at that end of the road?

That is the question I started to ask myself as I reflect on my journey at the University of Santo Tomas (UST). It could be anything. In my case, it is something that comes unexpectedly, yet when you finally grasp it in your hands, it is something you would be entirely grateful for.

It took me four grueling years to have that
realization. I was always that kid who had high
expectations, anticipating my wants to be a fullfledged
reality.

***

Tears rolled down my cheeks when I failed UST’s entrance exam, specifically in her AB Journalism program. It took only one click to crush my dream of being a Thomasian, reinforcing his passion for creative writing in the field of Journalism, crushing them into bite-sized pieces, shattering my enthusiasm.

Fortunately, with the guidance of my mother, the pieces were glued back together when we spoke to the assistant dean and was granted reconsideration. With a big smile, I shook her hand and accepted her offer to a different major—the AB Sociology program. It was not the major I had in mind, but I did not care. I was finally an Artlet.

This unexpected program opened my eyes to the different social realities our world faces and various issues we encounter as members of society. Sociology gave me the lens to see the world I live in from a different perspective, veering away from the perceptions I have been usually exposed to.

Still, my passion for creative writing remained a top priority. I attempted to reinforce such in minuscule ways such as writing narratives and poetry on the side, inspired by some lectures from our Literature classes.

That, until I discovered the Flame in my second semester as a freshman. Deeply inspired by my blockmate Maxine who pursued art despite being in AB Sociology, I was determined to bring back that drive to pursue creative writing once again.

I applied in the Letters section in my sophomore year. After an unsuccessful attempt, I took another qualifying exam one semester later and was surprised to see my name at the top of the list of accepted applicants. However, there was one catch: I was chosen for my second choice, the Faces section.

I was a bit worried. Despite my sheer interest in writing, I had no background in features. I felt like Andrea Sachs from The Devil Wears Prada who entered a field she had zero knowledge of. However, just like her, I engaged myself in the world I was in. I read every feature article left and right and asked for help from the right people.

The Faces section became a great opportunity to incorporate my passion. It gave me a chance to write people’s stories using my own literary style. I am beyond thankful that this section allowed me to become a medium for Artlets through diverse sets of success stories that inspire students like us.

After a year of hard work, I was promoted as Faces editor. However, I thought one year was not enough for me to have the position. This time, I could relate to Jenna Rink from 13 Going on 30, a magazine editor with a mind of a 13-year-old who initially had no idea how to do her job. Several months passed and here I am now. Under my guidance in four issues, Faces produced another diverse set of stories along with fresh content with my current crop of writers. The section survived under my care. I guess I did something right.

The road does not end in failure. It is the beginning of an avenue that leads you to greater opportunities—some are even unexpected. Failures are chances for personal empowerment, a way to improve and pave ourselves to better breaks, possibly better than what we envisioned. So, Artlets, never surrender to even the slightest of defeats, for it may be your ticket to the finish line known as success.

***

Catharsis is the process of releasing strong emotions resulting in renewal and restoration. Now, contrary to what my column name suggests, I set these emotions free by showing appreciation to the people who made my university life memorable.

I am always grateful for the Flame for allowing me to showcase my passion for writing and for pushing me to improve on a skill I always doubted.

To Team Faces—Julia, Lorraine, Tina, Mark, and Syrah—it has been an honor to guide you and see all your talents shine through your works. I hope the passion and drive you have shown this publication year would always remain in your hearts and minds. You all make me so proud.

To MMA, Mikkah and Minka, thank you for making my last year in UST worthwhile. It was tough, but the fun, support, and laughter always made me forget them all. Every session we had was always a break away from the struggles. I am so glad I met you, girls.

To my #VILMANIANS—Alex, Paulyne, Gette, Gwy, Kairen, Bullet, Maki, Bea, and Cars—thank you for the three years of memories we shared. The difficulties of finding a place to eat, the episodes of uncontrollable laughter, and the reciprocations of undying love and support will always have a special place in my heart. I am so proud that we have got this far.

I would like to give my sincerest gratitude to my family. You have given nothing but huge amounts of support, words of encouragement, and unconditional love that kept on inspiring me to move forth and finish my education. I love you all.

To my dear batchmates, a new road awaits. Do not tremble easily to the challenges it may bring. As Florence Welch magically sings in Hunger, “You make a fool of death with your beauty and, for a moment, I forget to worry.” F

For feedback, email adamlaurena.theflame@gmail.com.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/detour/feed/0The instincthttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/the-instinct/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/the-instinct/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 11:39:10 +0000https://abtheflame.net/?p=3486A person would not really know his or her first word because naturally, even when a child’s brain is likened to a sponge, it does not take in a memory long enough for a 20-year-old person to recall it. To watch your three or four-year-old self learn how to combine and recite letters would be …]]>

A person would not really know his or her first word because naturally, even when a child’s brain is likened to a sponge, it does not take in a memory long enough for a 20-year-old person to recall it. To watch your three or four-year-old self learn how to combine and recite letters would be a groundbreaking moment, almost like witnessing a divine act. In short, learning a language is a milestone. It is a time when our parents finally get past comprehending our cries according to its pitch, volume, and pace. A time when the language center inside our brains instinctively activates.

Charles Darwin stated that a man’s language ability is an instinctive tendency to acquire an art. Thinking more of it as a “pick your poison” situation, I happened to choose writing as an instrument of expressing my ideas. Even with the convenience of speaking the same language with your readers, articulating ideas into words is the most difficult step that makes writing an art.

My fondness in writing first developed when I started listing down my secrets. I distinctly remember writing that list in my Totally Spies notebook and hid it in my Totally Spies designed envelope bag. It was exhilarating having something no one can know about but it is within their reach. Then, the markers with invisible ink, the ones you can only see under a UV light, were invented which got me into writing daily diary entries. Writing was a secret to me then. It was a private experience, and I am my only reader. Until I reached my last year in high school, I started to see myself get better at it. Eventually, my classmates picked me as a scriptwriter, then my writing went on.

In college, I spent three years of my time writing literary pieces for the Flame. I was criticized and stripped down;
it was how I learned that everything should reveal itself. I learned from my previous mentors, Ate Arvee and Kuya Philip, that writing is nothing like a hasty assignment. A finished piece should “sit for a while” then read over again and again. To show, not tell; to write drunk and edit sober. Tease the readers, do not spoonfeed them. Above all else, they taught me to tell the truth.

Language is so tightly woven into human experience that it is not possible to have a life without it. It is an incredibly powerful tool for manipulation, to alter someone’s thoughts and beliefs. In this time when there is a threat to press freedom, the truth might be written in transparent ink, but not all readers have a UV flashlight to see past the lies and secrets. To have this light is a privilege and a responsibility. Having something close to an instinct, I expect that Artlet graduates acknowledge their privilege and responsibility to share this light for the freedom of our oppressed brothers and sisters and the lost victims of injustice.

***

I would like to thank my family for placing my books back on the shelf every time I finished writing a creative piece. And for giving me money to buy books.

To 4ELS1, thank you, guys, for being the way you are, supportive and competitive.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/the-instinct/feed/0Stories for my childrenhttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/stories-for-my-children/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/stories-for-my-children/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 09:49:43 +0000https://abtheflame.net/?p=3483“Kids, I’m gonna tell you an incredible story.” Such are the opening words of the hit American sitcom How I met your mother and they seem to encapsulate the life I had in college with the Flame: a story worth sharing. This will be my last perspective for the Flame. Similar to a president ending …]]>

“Kids, I’m gonna tell you an incredible story.” Such are the opening words of the hit American sitcom How I met your mother and they seem to encapsulate the life I had in college with the Flame: a story worth sharing. This will be my last perspective for the Flame. Similar to a president ending his/her term, I am here writing my valedictory message with the narratives I collected while working for this publication.

Three years ago, during my enrollment, I was handed with a booklet that celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Faculty of Arts and Letters (AB). I remember telling my father how well written the articles in the booklet were and betting him that it was the college publication who made that. Even after enrolling in the English Language Studies (ELS) program, thoughts suddenly came into my mind about shifting to Journalism. That was my plan when I was too naïve and afraid to take a program I am not passionate about. A year later, after giving the ELS program a chance, I decided to not shift anymore for unknown reasons. My decision became a product of multiple existential crises and apathetic conducts on how I view my life.

My existential crisis is a product of uncertainty and doubt. However, looking at the bright side, it pushed me to come to my senses and asked myself multiple times what I really want. Excelling in my academic status is one thing, but being genuinely happy is another. Before I joined the Flame, I had doubts, like any person who is trying to change his/her life. Fortunately, I was able to witness the beauty of working for a publication through my friend, Genelaine. She is now a senior photographer of TomasinoWeb. I remember her seeking for my help when she was taking the qualifying exam for the publication. I realized that this time, I have enough passion to join such publication. I, however, was afraid of sharing my photographs with other people. I found them unusual, and most of my friends didn’t really appreciate them as I do, so I kept them for myself. As a matter of fact, I shoot photos as an escapism escape from the harsh reality that somehow degrades the value of life we want to have. It became clear to us, the more we expose ourselves to the world through photographs, the more we create an alternate realm that we carefully choose to base on what we shoot. That is how I define photography, but working for the Flame supplied another meaning for it.

When I became a member and now an assistant editor of the photography department of the Flame, my passion turned into a chore that needed to be done. Every time I encounter stress from this publication, I always tell myself that I never signed up for this “hard” job. Nevertheless, this publication brought colors into my college life. Stories such as meeting actors and celebrities in theatre plays, joining rallies even though my parents forbid me to go, and going in a one day trip with a national artist are some of the narratives I will never forget and will gladly look back to. All these folders of photos became memories of learnings and happiness that I never thought I will find in this publication. This only proves that whatever decision we are about to make won’t make sense in the beginning. All these will seemingly come into place once we get the happiness we deserve, and this is how our stories end. Also, this is how I want my future children to hear it.

This amazing chapter of my life will not be a story worth sharing without these people.

To my parents, who never heard anything about my covers and only discovers them once they are published online, your likes and shares of those posts are appreciated;

To all the editors of the Flame I got the chance to work with, specifically Mikkah, Adam, and Andrea, your company kept me sane throughout the year we worked together;

To 4ELS1, my ultimate hype people who never failed to encourage me to pursue my passion for photography, you guys are probably the most amazing people I met in college;

To Jeff, you were always right beside me throughout this journey. I couldn’t ask for a better person to first look at my photographs before I show them to the world;

To Mazhie, Quiane, Sheila, Genelaine, Trina, Ryoma, and a lot more friends who supported me, you, guys, deserve all the happiness in the world.

What I did to express my thoughts and feelings through photographs actually helped me to build myself, and I am honored to share it with the community of brilliant minds and spirits in AB. I hope you will also find something that will help you become a better person for yourself and for this country. F

For feedback, email samilingmarianne@gmail.com.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/stories-for-my-children/feed/0Padayonhttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/padayon/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/padayon/#respondSun, 03 Jun 2018 09:22:40 +0000https://abtheflame.net/?p=3480Long at last, here I am with my graduation column article. It’s not that I have been waiting for this, but this marks the end of my college life—the journal article readings, reflection papers, and art requests. Troubled with what to write here, I am now infested with a writer’s block. Could the timing be …]]>

Long at last, here I am with my graduation column article. It’s not that I have been waiting for this, but this marks the end of my college life—the journal article readings, reflection papers, and art requests. Troubled with what to write here, I am now infested with a writer’s block. Could the timing be more ironic?

Four years seemed long, but if you happen to enjoy what you are doing, you’ll find out that it is not enough. Not enough? Yes, not enough. What I am trying to point out here is the quality of education I have received from the University. It is a well-known university in the country, but I think it is oversold.

I enrolled in the Sociology program, my first choice, hoping it can help me make the world a better place. Yes, they say “walang pera sa social work,” but who said I was in it for the money? A lot of graduates take different paths from what they were trained to do. My program is focused on research. Throughout the four years of studying, it has been marked in our minds that research or theories are not enough. Actions are needed to be done.

I took that program because it was the closest to community development that was being offered in the University. Sure, we have major courses in social change and social development, but then again, they felt like they were minor subjects. I could have had enrolled somewhere that offered a major in social development, yet I took a chance in, I suppose, was the best available option for me.

With a heavy heart, I must say that this is not the first time an opinion like this is said in a sociology major’s point of view. Please do let me make this clear: I did learn. I just hope that from now on, my drive to make the world a better place makes it better.

A piece of advice if you happen to be unsatisfied: Divert yourself from that fact. Make yourself satisfied! I know it is not easy, but making something of what you have is really an easier option. I finally felt relished when I was in second-year college. Joining an organization (a publication rather) was a healthy way to keep me distracted. In the Flame, I met a lot of new people and made new friends. Photoshop became my best bud. On the other hand, the deadline was always the enemy. So as they say, “keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.”

Doing extra-curricular activities changed my college life. It’s not actually easy, but you should not live your life crawled up in your comfort zone. I took that risk, and now I know I graduated happier than I could have been without it.

I would like to thank Maxine for introducing me to the Flame and becoming my first friend there. You were the one who related to me the most with what was going inside or outside the organization.

Endless gratitude to the older batches of the Flamily, especially to the ates of the Art Department and ate Ajj for highlighting my potential, teaching me interesting arts and design, and entrusting me with a big responsibility. You helped shape what I have become as an artist and a staff in this publication. I owe you, guys, a lot.

I could not have survived without you guys—Elcid, Jamie, Danea, Arrienne, and Pamela from my Art Department, and also to Mark from Faces—I thank you all for the hard work we have put together to create a unique identity for Flame. Continue to strive in your passion for creating art and don’t forget to help each other out. I am always here for you. I love you all and I know that the Flame is left in good hands.

Coming next to my blockmates is Flamily as my third family. Thank you for adopting me to a whole new experience that I never thought my college life would get involved in. Congratulations to us for successfully producing four issues and a literary portfolio.

To the ones who kept me sane through insane happiness together, thank you to my best friends—Maila, Faye, Aidoe, Daphne, Denysse, Meryll, and Jedi. I’ll never forget the fun times we have had and cheers to making new ones in the future.

For the unending love and support, I’d like to acknowledge my family, especially my parents. After all the struggle you’ve been through, here is your youngest, finally where you want him to be.

Give me the benefit of the doubt, but I’d still like to thank the Higher Being up there. You have put quite a challenge for me, but I know this is all according to Your plan. Kudos to your master plan!

To the unsatisfied and to those who want to make the world a better place, padayon! F

For feedback, email guthrieromano.theflame@gmail.com.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/06/padayon/feed/0Running after an enemyhttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/02/running-after-an-enemy/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/02/running-after-an-enemy/#respondThu, 08 Feb 2018 10:39:43 +0000http://abtheflame.net/?p=2973PEOPLE WHO know only the surface of Rappler’s case would say he/she supports freedom of speech, but since the media entity allegedly violated the law, it must face the consequences. Smart and relevant people, on the other hand, would not focus on this aspect; they would analyze what messages this issue convey. In a decision …]]>

PEOPLE WHO know only the surface of Rappler’s case would say he/she supports freedom of speech, but since the media entity allegedly violated the law, it must face the consequences. Smart and relevant people, on the other hand, would not focus on this aspect; they would analyze what messages this issue convey.

In a decision dated Jan. 11, the Security and Exchange Commission (SEC) revoked the registration of online news site Rappler for “violating the constitutional and statutory Foreign Equity Restrictions in Mass Media enforceable through rules and laws within the mandate of the Commission.” Mass media, SEC upholds, is any medium of communication designed to reach a mass of people—print media, such as newspapers and magazines, broadcast media such as radio and television, and electronic media such as the internet. Constitutionally, mass media should be 100 percent Filipino-owned. The foreign equity restriction states that anything less than 100 percent Filipino control is a violation, and it is the same with anything more than exactly zero percent foreign control.

The SEC argued that Rappler is a “mass entity that sold control to foreigners” because it must allegedly seek the approval of one of its foreign investors when it comes to corporate matters. Rappler previously said it has two foreign investors—Omidyar Network and North Base Media—but maintained that both have no ownership and control of the news site.

Now what do we hear from the Palace and President Rodrigo Duterte, who has been very vocal of disliking Rappler, about this issue? The Palace was quick to support the SEC ruling and clarified that Duterte did not have a hand in the decision. The President himself, moreover, said the issue could not be political and that he does not care whether Rappler would continue its operations or not.

Before, Duterte singled out the online news site in his second State of the Nation Address, claiming that it is not fully owned by Filipinos.

It was the President’s first public statement against Rappler, but it was not the first time that he hit media companies. He previously called out the Philippine Daily Inquirer (Inquirer) and ABS-CBN for their alleged biases—and seemed proud of what he did.

“Kaya ako lang ang Presidente na bumibira ng Inquirer pati ABS-CBN. Binababoy ko talaga. Kasi alam nila basura e,” he said during his visit in Marawi City. He also threatened ABS-CBN that he will block the renewal of its franchise.

With facts about the SEC ruling, one may say there is a chance Duterte could really have nothing to do with Rappler’s case. The Commission appears to have a good basis for its arguments against the online news site. But until what do we know about all these? Duterte is still the highest and the most powerful government official in the country, after all. And this issue with Rappler, is this just about a media entity violating a rule? No.

What is in front of Filipinos, especially journalists, is an approaching suppression of press freedom masked in a well-written argument of constitutional violation.

As of press time, Rappler is still allowed to continue with its operations so why say press freedom is becoming the issue? Attacks on press freedom need not be explicit. The issue may cost the online news site to cease from operating.

In case some people do not know, Rappler is known for its criticisms of Duterte. And the President has said before: he will not have all these sitting down. Is the issue with the online news site still not leaning toward an attack on press freedom? I doubt. F

For feedback, email mikkahfactor.theflame@gmail.com.

]]>https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/02/running-after-an-enemy/feed/0Bittersweet Mochahttps://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/02/bittersweet-mocha/
https://abtheflame.net/perspectives/2018/02/bittersweet-mocha/#respondThu, 08 Feb 2018 10:27:39 +0000http://abtheflame.net/?p=2970IN THIS day and age, everything we say and do is observed, analyzed, and critiqued. When President Rodrigo Duterte appointed Mocha Uson as Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary, all eyes (and ears) were on her. Uson has been very vocal about her support and loyalty toward the Duterte administration. She continues to defy the public through …]]>

IN THIS day and age, everything we say and do is observed, analyzed, and critiqued.

When President Rodrigo Duterte appointed Mocha Uson as Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary, all eyes (and ears) were on her.

Uson has been very vocal about her support and loyalty toward the Duterte administration. She continues to defy the public through condemning all the anti-Duterte spills and defending and patronizing all the questionable and controversial decisions of the current administration. Her loyalty to Duterte proves to go beyond all the issues that haunt his administration.

When Duterte decided to give her a Malacañang post, no one was surprised.

Uson continues to influence and drag the people into a spiral of lies and fake news. It is ironic that a Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary leads the agenda of falsifying the truth and spreading all sorts of lies and misinformation. She, however, claims that she is not the perpetrator of fake news, rather a victim of it.

The newbie public servant indeed earned a name for herself.

Recently, the University of Santo Tomas Alumni Association, Inc. (USTAAI) decided to give Uson the Thomasian Alumni in Government Service (TAGS) award. According to the USTAAI’s statement, Uson deserved the award for she fit the criteria: 1) a graduate of UST, and 2) a government employee working for the Executive, Judiciary, House of Representatives, and Senate.

Uson graduated from UST in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in medical technology. Meanwhile, the entertainer-turned-blogger was appointed as the communications assistant secretary on May 8, 2017.

The USTAAI explained that although TAGS is not the highest award given by UST, it is “envisioned to inspire and challenge the recipients to lead the Thomasian core values of compassion, competence, and commitment.”

Despite the USTAAI’s efforts to provide a logical explanation for their illogical decision to bestow Uson the government service award, Thomasians were not convinced.

Thomasians were immediately outraged when news broke. Student councils and organizations did not hold back in expressing their disappointment towards the USTAAI. They released statements condemning the association’s decision. They pointed out that Uson does not only deserve the award but she also nowhere near fit as a role model to public servants.

USTAAI, however, stood firm in its decision and decided not to rescind Uson’s government service award.

The call for Uson to return her award is not an indication of unfair treatment or judgment towards her, rather, it is about upholding what it means to be in public service.

Giving the award to anyone just because they fit in with the criteria is just like giving away candy to any random person. The award became an accessory than a privilege. It has downgraded and belittled the essence of having a government service award.

Being a recipient of such award does not necessarily mean you have been in public service for a certain period, or you have to have a certain amount of accomplishments. It is about serving the people with integrity, diplomacy, and truthfulness. For eight months in office, Uson does not seem to possess any of these qualities.

Fortunately, Uson gave in and voluntarily returned her award to the alumni association. She said in a report that she returned her award to put an end to the bullying of then USTAAI President Henry Tenedero.

Uson is secretly trying to send the people a message–that despite the criticisms and bashes, she still has the upper hand.